DESCRIPTION
Sesame Seeds - White Shirogoma - Heirloom
Other Common Names: Zhi ma, goma, tahini, benne, sim sim, sesamol, and semolina.
How to Grow White Shirogoma Sesame
Prepare soil carefully to ensure that the small seeds grow properly. Start indoors six weeks before the last frost, or direct seed a month after the last frost. Soil should be warm before seedlings or seeds are put outdoors. Keep soil moist and fertilize as needed, but avoid overwatering. Control weeds carefully.
In cooler climates, grow under covers or cloches with heat. Can grow in pots or open soil provided the soil temperature is warm enough. This tropical plant is most commonly grown as an annual herb. Start seeds indoors 6 weeks prior to the last frost in cooler climates. If transplanting, start seeds in peat or other biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbances during transplantation.
Harvesting White Shirogoma Sesame
The seeds develop inside pods inside the flowers. Harvest before the seed pods burst open. Discard the pods. Sesame seeds can take a little effort to harvest, but it is well worth it. Pods at the bottom of the plant will ripen first. Cut the stems with the ripe pods and dry them on a flat surface.
Culinary Tips
White sesame seeds have a milder flavor than black sesame seeds, but they are otherwise similar. Use as a garnish or grind into a paste for condiments.
Seeds Per Package
- 3 g packet - Approximately 1,362 Seeds
ATTRIBUTES
Basic Info
| Latin Name: |
Sesame indicum
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| White Shirogoma Sesame Color: |
Deep green leaves and stems with white flowers and greenish-brown pods.
|
| White Shirogoma Sesame Flavor: |
Nutty and sweet.
|
Growing Info
| Days to Maturity: |
85 days to maturity.
|
| Days to Germination: |
7-12 Days
|
| Seeding Depth: |
1/4 inches |
| Row Spacing: |
40 inches |
| Plant Height: |
36-48 inches |
| Growth Habit: |
Single or multi-branched stalks with large leaves and bell-shaped flowers near the apex. |
| Soil Preference: |
Average, well-drained soil with a neutral pH. Not tolerant of salt.
|
| Temperature Preference: |
70-80 F
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Other
| Plant Width: |
12-18 inches |
| Pests and Disease: |
Sesame seeds are not vulnerable to any particular pests or diseases due to generations of breeding. Common issues like damping off and aphids can occur.
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